Name: White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 1/2 cup Light brown sugar (packed); 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon Baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Quick-cooking oats; 1 cup Old-fashioned oats; 3/4 teaspoon Ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon Ground nutmeg; 1 and 3/4 cups Macadamia nuts (roughly chopped); 1 cup Dried cranberries; 8 ounces High-quality white chocolate (see post for more on this); 1 tablespoon Coconut or canola oil

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Every time I crave a sweet yet wholesome snack, I find myself reaching for these White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars. There’s something about the combination of creamy white chocolate and crunchy macadamia nuts that makes my heart sing. Imagine walking into a cozy kitchen, the aroma of baking oats and nuts filling the air, and the warmth of the oven inviting you to indulge. This recipe is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating a little moment of joy. Whether it’s a busy morning or a relaxing afternoon, these bars fit perfectly into any part of the day.

As I whisk the ingredients together, I can’t help but think of all the memories made over homemade snacks with family and friends. The simplicity of combining eggs, brown sugar, and a touch of vanilla brings back nostalgia, reminding me of the happiness that baking can bring. And the best part? They’re so easy to whip up! These bars not only satisfy cravings but also offer a boost of energy, making them ideal for lunch boxes, post-workout snacks, or even a little treat during movie night.

For those who love to explore flavors, the mix of dried cranberries and macadamia nuts adds a delightful twist. Each bite is a balance of sweet and savory, crispy and chewy, making the White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars a wonderful snack for any occasion. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk

Why This White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars Works

Here are a few reasons why I absolutely adore these White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars.

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

The combination of sweet white chocolate, tart cranberries, and rich macadamia nuts creates a harmonious blend. It’s a flavor party in every bite!

Healthier Snack Option

These bars are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats and nuts, making them a much better choice than store-bought snacks filled with preservatives.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a professional baker to create these delightful treats. With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch ready in no time!

Customizable

Feel free to mix it up! You can swap the cranberries for another dried fruit or experiment with different nuts to suit your taste preferences.

Great for Meal Prep

Prepare a batch at the start of the week, and you’ll have a quick and easy snack on hand to keep you fueled throughout busy days.

Perfect for Sharing

These bars make a fantastic gift for friends or a thoughtful treat when hosting gatherings. Everyone loves a homemade snack!

Ingredients Required for White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars

When making these delicious White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars, the quality of your ingredients makes all the difference. Each component plays a vital role in achieving not just flavor but also texture. The combination of quick-cooking oats and old-fashioned oats ensures the perfect chewy base, while the addition of macadamia nuts and dried cranberries provides delightful bites of crunch and sweetness.

2 large eggs, at room temperature: These help bind the ingredients together, giving the bars their structure.
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall rich flavor deliciously.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: A small amount to help with the structure.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise slightly, making them light and chewy.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
2 cups quick-cooking oats: The main ingredient, providing texture and substance.
1 cup old-fashioned oats: Adds more chewiness and complements the quick oats perfectly.
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A hint of spice that elevates the taste.
1 and 3/4 cups macadamia nuts, roughly chopped: Brings a buttery richness and satisfying crunch.
1 cup dried cranberries: Their tartness pairs beautifully with the sweet chocolate.
8 ounces high-quality white chocolate: The star of the show, providing that creamy sweetness.
1 tablespoon coconut or canola oil: Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly.

How to Prepare White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars

Making these White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars is a straightforward process that will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. Let’s dive into the steps together!

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. You want to create a homogenous mixture that holds everything together.
Now, it’s time to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, take a 9×13-inch pan and line it with parchment paper. Leave about an inch of overlap on two sides to create handles later. This will make it easier to lift the bars out of the pan. Don’t forget to lightly grease the parchment with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
In another large mixing bowl, add the quick-cooking oats, old-fashioned oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, macadamia nuts, and cranberries. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
Next, pour the egg and sugar mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently stir everything together until fully incorporated. You should see the oats and nuts coated in a sweet, sticky mixture. Make sure there are no dry pockets left.
Once everything is mixed, pour the granola mixture into the prepared pan. Using your spatula, press the mixture down firmly into all corners and flatten the top. This helps the bars hold together nicely when they bake.
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden brown and the center feels set. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
After taking them out of the oven, allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up as they cool.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the white chocolate drizzle. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the white chocolate and oil. Heat in the microwave on low power in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
Once the bars are completely cool, use a sharp knife to cut them into even bars. Drizzle the cooled white chocolate over each bar. Let them sit for a bit until the chocolate sets.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Enjoy your homemade White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars!

Things Worth Knowing

Choosing quality ingredients: The flavor of your bars will depend on the quality of the ingredients used, especially the chocolate and nuts.
Storage: Keep your granola bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness; they can also be wrapped individually for convenience.
Adjusting sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener.
Mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with other nuts or dried fruits based on your preference; the recipe is very forgiving!

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to switch things up with your White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars, here are some fun ideas to consider:

Add different nuts: Experiment with walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a different flavor and texture.
Incorporate seeds: Adding flaxseeds, chia seeds, or sunflower seeds can boost the nutritional value and add a nice crunch.
Change the dried fruit: Dried cherries, apricots, or raisins can be great substitutes for cranberries.
Make them chocolatey: Try adding mini chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor.
Enhance with spices: Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a warming spice kick.
Protein boost: Mix in your favorite protein powder to create a more filling snack.
Vegan option: Replace eggs with a flaxseed meal egg substitute and use vegan chocolate for a plant-based version.

How to Enjoy White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars

These White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:

As a breakfast option: Pair these bars with a cup of yogurt or a smoothie for a quick and satisfying start to your day.
Perfect for lunch boxes: They make an excellent addition to kids’ lunches, providing energy and sweetness without being overly indulgent.
Great for on-the-go: Pack a few bars in your bag for a healthy snack while running errands or during a busy day at work.
For outdoor adventures: Bring them along on hikes or picnics; they’re nutritious and provide a quick energy boost.
Movie nights: Serve these bars as a sweet treat while enjoying a film with family or friends.
Seasonal gatherings: These bars are a delightful addition to holiday parties or festive occasions, adding a homemade touch to your celebrations.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to three days.

FAQ

Yes, you can easily make these White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars vegan. Simply substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal replacement by mixing one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Additionally, opt for vegan white chocolate to keep the recipe plant-based.

To keep your White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can wrap them individually and freeze them. Just make sure to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Absolutely! If macadamia nuts are not your favorite or you have allergies, feel free to replace them with your choice of nuts. Walnuts, pecans, or even almonds work wonderfully in these bars. Each nut adds a unique flavor and texture, so choose what you enjoy most!

After baking, let your White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars cool in the pan for about ten minutes. Then, use the parchment paper to lift them out and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Use a sharp knife to cut them into even bars. For cleaner cuts, you can warm the knife slightly under hot water and dry it off before slicing.

Conclusion

The White Chocolate Cranberry Macadamia Nut Granola Bars are truly a delightful creation that brings together wholesome ingredients and satisfying flavors. They make an excellent addition to any snack time or meal prep. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make these delicious bars at home. Enjoy every bite and share the joy with friends and family!